Mike Shildt in perfect position to get revenge on Cardinals in new job

The Cardinals fired Mike Shildt earlier this offseason, citing philosophical disagreements. Now, Shildt has an opportunity at revenge.

Shildt has a new gig as a consultant for player development in the San Diego Padres organization. It’s a natural fit for Shildt, who made his way up the ranks in St. Louis before being let go a few months ago.

The role is a part-time one, as his day job remains a consultant in the league office. The Padres interviewed Shildt for their managerial role earlier this offseason, but opted to go in a different direction, hiring Bob Melvin.

Nonetheless, Shildt has the opportunity to scout and better another team in the National League, thus giving him a chance to get the last laugh on St. Louis’ front office. It’s not a stretch to wonder if the Cardinals will regret ditching Shildt for Oliver Marmol should Shildt’s work in the Padres organization lead to sustained success in San Diego.

Should Cardinals regret falling out with Mike Shildt?

ESPN’s Jeff Passan explained the decision to fire Shildt at the time:

"“Cardinals president John Mozeliak said he fired manager Mike Shildt earlier today due to a “philosophical difference” in the direction of the team. “We decided internally it would be best to separate now,” he said, even though Shildt had one year left on his contract.”"

The timing — and the fact that Shildt had another year left on his contract and had just led the Cardinals to the postseason and a franchise-record winning streak — caught the entire baseball landscape off-guard. Shildt in particular was said to be shocked by the Cardinals’ decision-making.

Alas, the former manager said all the right things in the aftermath, claiming there were no hard feelings.